Path of Exile 2 Endgame Mapping: A Waystone Sustainability Guide
One of the biggest hurdles in transitioning from Path of Exile 2's campaign to the endgame is maintaining a steady supply of Waystones. Running dry, especially at higher tiers, is frustrating. Fortunately, several strategies can ensure a consistent flow. This guide outlines key steps for Waystone sustainability.
Prioritize Boss Maps
The most effective method is to use your highest-tier Waystones on Atlas Boss map nodes. Bosses have a significantly higher Waystone drop rate. If short on high-tier maps, use lower-tier maps to reach Boss nodes, reserving higher-tier maps for the Boss fight itself. Defeating a Boss often yields a Waystone of equal or higher tier, sometimes even multiple.
Invest Currency Wisely
Resist the urge to hoard 
Regal Orbs and 
Exalted Orbs for trading or crafting. Consider Waystones an investment: increased investment yields greater returns (provided you survive). This creates a positive feedback loop, but only if you continuously invest in Waystones. Here's a currency allocation strategy:
- Tier 1-5 Waystones: Upgrade to Magic items (
Orb of Augmentation, 
Orb of Transmutation). - Tier 6-10 Waystones: Upgrade to Rare items (Regal Orb).
- Tier 11-16 Waystones: Maximize upgrades (Regal Orb, Exalted Orb,
Vaal Orb, Delirium Instills).
Prioritize Waystone drop chance (above 200%) and increased item rarity. Also, focus on increasing monster quantity, especially rare monsters. Sell items for Regal Orbs instead of Exalted Orbs if they aren't selling quickly; they'll move faster, generating usable currency.
Utilize Atlas Skill Tree Nodes
Strategic Atlas skill tree allocation is crucial. Prioritize these nodes:
- Constant Crossroads: 20% increased Waystone quantity.
- Fortunate Path: 100% increased Waystone rarity.
- The High Road: 20% chance for Waystones to be a higher tier.
These are achievable by completing Tier 4 maps. Respeccing is worthwhile if you've chosen other nodes; Waystones are more valuable than the gold needed for respeccing.
Optimize Your Build
Insufficiently optimized builds lead to frequent deaths, hindering Waystone sustainability. Consult a build guide for your class and respec if necessary. Endgame mapping requires a different approach than campaign leveling.
Leverage Precursor Tablets
Precursor Tablets enhance monster rarity and quantity, and add modifiers. Stack their effects by using them on nearby towers for amplified results, even on T5+ maps. Don't hoard them; use them strategically.
Buy Waystones When Needed
Even with optimal strategies, occasional Waystone shortages are possible. Don't hesitate to purchase them from the trade site (around 1 Exalted Orb each, cheaper for lower tiers). Use the in-game trade channel (/trade 1) for bulk purchases.
